Episode Details

What happens when a restaurant encourages people to put away their phones and simply talk to each other?

At Bella Italia in North Berwick, Scotland, a simple sign on the door reads: "We do not have Wi-Fi. Talk to each other. Pretend it's 1995." 

That sign caught my attention while I was teaching at Queen Margaret University in Scotland.  But it was what happened inside the restaurant that stayed with me. In this episode of Stories of Change & Creativity, I talk with Loredana (Lora) Calabrese about family and why creating a place where people truly connect may be more important today than ever.

 I noticed something special about the restaurant. Yes, the food was great but so was the atmosphere. 

 Lora shares the story of her father, Giovanni Mastrocinque, and his journey from Italy to Scotland. Through hard work, he built a successful family business that continues to bring people together more than four decades later.

What struck me most about Lora's story is that Bella Italia isn't really a story about a restaurant. It's a story about people. It's about creating a place where families gather and memories are made.

When I later told local interior designer Emma Cross that I was planning to interview Lora, she said, "That's where everyone goes for celebrations." This simple comment made me even more curious about the story behind Bella Italia and the family who built it.

In this Episode

• The story behind Bella Italia and its founding in 1981

• Giovanni Mastrocinque’s journey from Italy to Scotland

• The famous "No WiFi" sign and why it resonates with customers

• Lessons Lora learned from her father about hard work and perseverance

• Building a family business across generations

• Creating a place where people feel welcome and valued

Connect with Bella Italia

Bella Italia Restaurant
North Berwick, Scotland

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Stories of Change & Creativity explores the defining moments that shape who we become—and the lessons we learn along the way. Hosted by professor, storyteller, and proud Texan Judy Oskam. 

Together, we explore what happened and what we learn from the experiences that define us. Whether you're navigating a career transition, seeking personal growth or looking for inspiration to take your next step, you'll discover practical wisdom you can apply to your own life.

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